In this guide you will find the history and significance of Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah), where it is and how far it is from the Haram, the best time to visit, simple etiquette, practical tips and how to get there comfortably with a private Zikr Cabs car. It is part of our Madinah Ziyarat Guide.

History and significance of Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah)

When the Muslims arrived in Madinah, fresh water was scarce and the owner of the well of Rumah sold its water. The Prophet ﷺ encouraged someone to buy it for the Muslims, and Uthman ibn Affan (RA) bought it and made it free for all. Sahih al-Bukhari records that Uthman reminded people of this later in his life.

The well became an example of sadaqah jariyah, ongoing charity whose reward continues. Historians say the land around it became a farm whose income was given in charity for centuries.

Today the well sits inside a fenced farm area that has been developed by the authorities. Access can change, and at times visitors can only see it from outside.

Where is Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah)? Location and distance

Bir Uthman is in the al-Aqiq area, north-west of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, roughly 5–6 km away and close to Masjid al-Qiblatain, about 10–15 minutes by car.

Distances and travel times are approximate and depend on your hotel, the route and traffic, especially in Ramadan and the Hajj season.

Best time to visit and etiquette

Morning visits work well, combined with Masjid al-Qiblatain. Ask your driver to check if the site is open that day.

Use the visit to talk with your family about charity. There is no religious ritual for the well, and you should not take water or soil from it.

As with all ziyarat, it helps to keep the right intention. Visiting historical places is not part of the rites of Umrah or Hajj. It is a chance to learn, to reflect on the lives of the Prophet ﷺ and his companions, and to make du’a. Scholars remind us not to seek blessing from rocks, walls or soil, and to follow the Sunnah in what we say and do. Religious rulings can differ between schools of thought, so ask a qualified scholar about your own situation.

Combining Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) with other ziyarat

Most pilgrims visit Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) as part of a wider tour rather than on its own. Nearby places that fit well on the same trip include Masjid al-Qiblatain, The Seven Mosques (Khandaq), Masjid al-Jumu’ah and Jabal Uhud & the Martyrs of Uhud. Each has its own guide, linked at the end of this page. A good plan is to choose three or four places for one morning, starting with the one that needs the most walking while it is still cool, and to leave time for rest and prayer. If you only have one free morning, our suggested route in the Madinah Ziyarat Guide shows a practical order that avoids driving back and forth across the city.

Visiting Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) with family, children and elderly pilgrims

Ziyarat with family is a special memory, but it is easy to try to do too much. Keep the day short and gentle: plan around prayer times, take water and light snacks, and let anyone who is tired rest in the air-conditioned car while others step out. For wheelchair users, ask your driver to stop as close as the rules allow, and remember that some paths and steps are not suitable for wheelchairs. Teach children a short story about each place before you arrive, so the visit becomes a lesson they remember. Above all, keep the visit calm and respectful, as others around you may be in quiet prayer or reflection.

Practical tips for your visit

• Access rules change; you may only see it through the fence.
• Combine it with Masjid al-Qiblatain and the Seven Mosques.
• Little shade, so bring water and a cap.
• Dress modestly and carry water, especially from May to September, when temperatures can pass 45°C.
• Keep your ID and the Nusuk app with you, as some areas have checkpoints, and access rules can change, so follow the instructions of officials on site.

How to get to Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) with Zikr Cabs

The easiest way to visit Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) is with a private car that waits for you. With Zikr Cabs, your driver collects you from your hotel, takes you to Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) and other nearby sites at your own pace, and brings you back in time for prayer. You never have to bargain with street taxis or wait for a crowded bus.

Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah) is included in our Madinah Ziyarat taxi tour, which starts from SAR 190 for a sedan. Fares are fixed per vehicle, not per person, and larger cars such as the GMC Yukon, Hyundai H1/Staria, Toyota Hiace and Coaster are available for families and groups. See all vehicles and prices on our routes and prices page. * Rates exclude VAT.

Frequently asked questions about Bir Uthman (Well of Rumah)

Nearby ziyarats

• Masjid al-Qiblatain
• The Seven Mosques (Khandaq)
• Masjid al-Jumu’ah
• Jabal Uhud & the Martyrs of Uhud

← Back to the Madinah Ziyarat Guide

Sources and further reading

• Sahih al-Bukhari 2778 (Uthman and the well of Rumah)
• Encyclopaedia Britannica – Medina
• Nusuk – official platform for Umrah, Hajj and Rawdah

This guide is general information for pilgrims. Official rules on permits and access change often; please check Nusuk and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before you travel.

Book on WhatsApp